A meeting was held at the Federation Council with the Ambassador of Azerbaijan to Russia Rakhman Mustafayev.
It is reported that First Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council, co-chairman of the Interparliamentary Commission on Cooperation of the Milli Majlis and the Federal Assembly Andrei Yatskin and Chairman of the Federation Council Committee on International Affairs Grigory Karasin met with the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Russian Federation Rahman Mustafayev.
During the conversation, the parties discussed a wide range of issues of mutual interest.
Andrei Yatskin emphasized that bilateral parliamentary interaction is well structured and streamlined. He spoke in detail about the effective work within the framework of the Interparliamentary Commission on Cooperation between the Milli Majlis and the Federal Assembly; a working group on interparliamentary relations between Russia and Azerbaijan operates in the Milli Majlis. An interchamber Commission on cooperation between the State Duma and the Milli Majlis has been formed.
The First Vice-Speaker of the Federation Council noted the high level of interaction between Russian and Azerbaijani parliamentarians, including at international platforms - in the Inter-Parliamentary Union, the CIS Inter-Parliamentary Assembly, and the Asian Parliamentary Assembly.
Grigory Karasin drew attention to the fact that relations between Moscow and Baku are currently on the rise. “The main thing in our cooperation is mutual trust. We support Baku’s desire to expand ties with multilateral associations, including BRICS and the SCO,” the senator said.
The head of the Federation Council Committee considers it important to build up constructive cooperation within the CIS. “We support the rapprochement of Baku with the EAEU. This works to strengthen security, economic and transport connectivity in our common space.”
The meeting participants discussed economic ties between Russia and Azerbaijan, the topic of establishing the Consulate General of Russia in Azerbaijan was touched upon, as well as the situation in the South Caucasus and around the Ukrainian crisis. Some aspects of relations in the cultural and humanitarian field, problems of the common educational, scientific and linguistic space are raised. Grigory Karasin emphasized that Russia values the Republic’s caring attitude towards common history, culture and the Russian language.
Rahman Mustafayev spoke about further expansion of contacts and joint work through parliamentary interaction between Azerbaijan and Russia.
Time.news Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Elvira Mamedova, an expert in international relations focusing on Caucasus politics. Dr. Mamedova, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Mamedova: Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important topic.
Time.news Editor: Recently, there was a significant meeting at the Federation Council in Russia involving the Azerbaijani Ambassador Rakhman Mustafayev. Can you give us some context about this meeting and its importance?
Dr. Mamedova: Certainly! This meeting highlights the ongoing efforts to strengthen diplomatic ties between Azerbaijan and Russia. With escalating regional dynamics, especially concerning trade and security, it’s crucial for both nations to maintain open lines of communication. The discussions included a variety of critical issues, indicating that both parties are invested in enhancing bilateral cooperation.
Time.news Editor: The report mentioned that Andrei Yatskin, First Deputy Chairman of the Federation Council, emphasized the well-structured interaction between the two countries. How do you interpret this assertion?
Dr. Mamedova: Yatskin’s comment underlines the institutionalized cooperation existing between Azerbaijan and Russia. The formation of the Interparliamentary Commission on Cooperation and a working group on these relations shows a systematic approach to tackling mutual interests. This structured interaction may help both countries address regional challenges more effectively.
Time.news Editor: The mention of an interchamber commission indicates a deeper level of collaboration. How do you think this will impact the political landscape in the region?
Dr. Mamedova: The establishment of an interchamber commission can significantly enhance policymaking efficiency. By facilitating dialogue between the two parliaments, they can coordinate responses to various challenges, including economic issues, security matters, and socio-political scenarios. This kind of partnership not only stabilizes relations but also promotes regional stability in the South Caucasus, fostering a climate where such nations can address issues collaboratively rather than through confrontation.
Time.news Editor: That brings up a good point. The South Caucasus has a complex geopolitical landscape. How do you view Azerbaijan’s role in this context amidst its relationship with Russia?
Dr. Mamedova: Azerbaijan occupies a strategic position in the South Caucasus, both geographically and politically. It’s a bridge between East and West, and its energy resources are vital for many nations. Azerbaijan’s relationship with Russia is key, as it helps maintain a balance in the region. However, Azerbaijan is also diversifying its relationships, including closer ties with the West. This means it has the potential to be a facilitator of dialogue rather than just a passive participant in regional politics.
Time.news Editor: Last question, Dr. Mamedova, looking ahead, what can we expect from Azerbaijan-Russia relations in the near future?
Dr. Mamedova: I anticipate that the trend of enhanced meetings and collaborations will continue. With the ongoing geopolitical shifts, Azerbaijan and Russia are likely to find common ground on various issues. However, it will be crucial for Azerbaijan to navigate its alliances carefully and maintain its sovereignty while leveraging its connections with both Russia and Western powers.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Mamedova, for your insightful analysis. It’s clear that the developments in Azerbaijan-Russia relations will be significant to monitor in the coming months.
Dr. Mamedova: Thank you for having me! I look forward to seeing how this relationship unfolds.